Why it matters:
Lando Norris admits his early-season approach in F1 2025 led to mistakes, putting him behind McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri in the championship battle. He now drives more cautiously, realizing 95% effort is often enough.
The big picture:
With 10 races remaining, the F1 2025 title is increasingly likely to be an intra-team fight between Norris and Piastri, as McLaren's MCL39 dominates and rivals halt development for 2026. Norris trails Piastri by just nine points after recent wins.
The details:
- Norris points to errors in early qualifying sessions, notably Q3 mistakes in China and Bahrain, and a costly crash in Q3 in Saudi Arabia.
- The Saudi Arabia incident saw Piastri take pole and win, establishing a 10-point lead over Norris that has largely persisted.
- Norris explains his early drive for 100% performance led to these errors.
- He now believes driving at 90-95% is often sufficient for pole positions and wins, expressing regret for his initial aggressive push.
- Piastri has also made mistakes, including sliding off in Australia and a Safety Car penalty at Silverstone.
What's next:
Norris feels he has improved his consistency and ability to adapt to the MCL39's handling, setting the stage for an intense conclusion to the McLaren internal championship fight.